“It’s the brandy that makes it so good” claims Kristin. Here’s her tried and true recipe for Sangria (which I tested tonight just to make sure). She’s right. It is good — almost too easy to slurp down. Although the recipe calls for peaches and cherries, I used apricots and cherries plus threw in some Sylvan berries from WillowWind and some raspberries from Solstice.

Add sugar (start with 1/4 c and add more to taste after adding wine and fruit).

Add fruit, brandy, Triple Sec, and wine to the pitcher.

Mix and chill for an hour or so.

Serving suggestion: Fill glass 1/3 full with ice. Pour alcohol/fruit mixture over the ice and top with club soda to taste.

Enjoy!

Kristin also asked that I mention 3 of the wines she is carrying with summer in mind, all of them <$10/bottle!

Vidigal Vinho Verde – A lovely fresh crisp dry white wine from Portugal with a slight natural fizz to make for refreshing sipping on a hot summer evening. Add a couple raspberries for a hint of flavor from a luscious summer fruit. $9.49

Olivaris Jumilla Rose – A Spanish style rose. A Bold cheerful wine tasting of strawberry and herbs. A great multi-tasker served solo on the patio or sipped along side your favorite cheese plate with friends. $8.99